The suspect is described as a “clean looking” white male in his early 20s, of average height and build.

So far he has targeted two elderly people at opposite ends of the borough. In both cases, the conman knocked at doors, showed a fake ID and asked to see the cash his victims had in their homes so he could check for fake notes.

He then made off with the money.

Havering police confirmed they were not investigating fraudulent notes in this manner. Any resident who is approached by a police officer should thoroughly check his or her ID.

To check the validity of a police officer’s ID you can call 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

Please double-check the identity of anyone entering your home. For further information and crime prevention advice please see www.met.police.uk.

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